## Energy Efficiency in the Private Rented Sector Shows Progress but Damp Issues Persist

The latest English Housing Survey reveals that energy efficiency in England’s private rented sector (PRS) has improved significantly. In 2024, 56% of PRS homes fall within energy performance certificate (EPC) bands A to C, up from 26% previously. Notably, properties rated in band C increased from 45% to 52%. Conversely, the proportion of homes in the lower bands E to G has decreased to 23%.

Despite these gains, damp and mould remain persistent problems. Fifteen per cent of PRS homes failed to meet the Decent Homes Standard in 2024, a figure largely unchanged since 2022. Additionally, 9% of dwellings present a Category 1 hazard under the Housing Health and Rating System (HHRS), indicating serious health risks.

Propertymark has urged the government to support landlords with clear guidance, financial assistance, and realistic timelines to meet energy efficiency targets. The survey estimates it costs an average of £7,040 to upgrade a typical private rented property to an EPC C rating.

For landlords, this means ongoing investment is necessary to improve property standards and comply with regulations, while also addressing damp issues that can affect tenant health and property value.

## Borough-Wide Licensing in Brent Introduces Intelligence-Led Enforcement

The London Borough of Brent has implemented a borough-wide licensing scheme requiring all landlords, including those with single properties, to hold a valid licence. Brent’s enforcement team is now actively pursuing unlicensed landlords through intelligence-led investigations supported by data analysis.

Councils are increasingly adopting such targeted enforcement measures to tackle rogue landlords operating illegally. A council spokesperson warned that landlords found managing properties without a licence face serious consequences, including civil penalties of up to £30,000 per offence.

This development signals a stricter regulatory environment for landlords in Brent and potentially other areas considering similar schemes. Landlords should ensure they hold the necessary licences to avoid heavy fines and enforcement actions.

## Making Tax Digital: New Rules and Potential Penalties from April 2026

From 6 April 2026, Making Tax Digital (MTD) rules will apply to landlords with rental income exceeding £50,000. Under these rules, landlords must keep their email addresses updated with HMRC. Failure to do so could result in fines up to £1,000.

Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary Mark Garnier criticised the penalty as “disproportionate” and “unprecedented,” highlighting concerns it may unfairly affect vulnerable or less financially literate taxpayers. He noted there is currently no equivalent penalty for failing to update a postal address.

In response, Lucy Rigby, Economic Secretary to the Treasury, stated the policy would be regularly reviewed and include safeguards, such as an opt-out option for vulnerable individuals to remain on non-digital channels.

Landlords should review their HMRC contact details promptly to avoid penalties and stay compliant with MTD requirements.

## Shelter’s New CEO Advocates Collaboration with Landlords to Address Homelessness

Sarah Elliott, the new CEO of Shelter, has signalled a shift in the charity’s approach by emphasising the need to work collectively with landlords and councils to improve the housing system and reduce homelessness. This contrasts with the previous leadership’s more critical stance towards landlords.

Elliott stated, “I think we’re very pragmatic, and I think our role will need to evolve. Where there are rogue landlords who are not doing the right thing, we clearly will not be on their side.”

She also expressed Shelter’s interest in collaborating with councils and housing developers to increase social housing supply.

This pragmatic approach may open new opportunities for landlords to engage constructively with housing charities and local authorities.

## Additional News Snippets for Landlords

– Landlords are urged to record reasons for decisions as well as actions to avoid fines.
– A call for landlords to test a new private rented sector database is underway.
– A new short-lets register is expected to launch this spring.
– Enforcement remains a key issue in meeting the Decent Homes Standard.
– Landlords require a practical safety roadmap to comply with the Renters’ Rights Act.
– Investigations reveal that failures contributing to the Grenfell tragedy persist today.

For ongoing updates, landlords can refer to the Quick News Updates on Landlord Law.